Technology and Teamwork take Guns off the Streets

On New Year’s Eve, at approximately 11:30 p.m., Fort Myers Police Patrol Officers were notified by a ShotSpotter alert of gunfire at 3647 Minnesota Drive.

Neighborhood video surveillance also reported three males were being observed loading a rifle on top of the trunk of a vehicle at the address.

Upon arrival, officers were able to detain all three suspects. They confiscated firearms and multiple rounds of ammunition. As officers canvased the area, they discovered a variety of spent bullet casings and additional live ammunition.

Travis Blanks

Officers arrested Travis Blanks (date of birth 9-19-73.) He was charged with possession of a firearm by a Florida convicted felon and discharging a firearm in a public area.

They also arrested Willie Blanks (date of birth 1-11-67) and Corie Church (date of birth 9-8-79.) Both were charged with discharging a firearm in a public area. All three suspects were transported to the Lee County Jail.

Willie Blanks

Corie Church

The investigation took additional weapons off the streets of the City of Fort Myers. It also demonstrated the capabilities of coordinated efforts between intelligence gathering technology and dedicated community police work.